Ethan Underwood seeks zoning change for 7.5 acres in Avery community

A proposed development in Cherokee County is stirring controversy as the Board of Commissioners considers a request for rezoning a 7.45-acre property in the Avery community. The initial request to change the zoning from agricultural to neighborhood commercial was met with a narrow denial from the planning commission, which voted 5 to 4 against it. The applicant, Ethan Underwood for Mac Development, is now seeking to rezone the property to office institutional with specific stipulations, eliminating the need for concurrent variances.

During the work session, a petition with numerous signatures opposing the development was presented, highlighting community concerns. The site, located at 7658 Union Hill Road near Avery Elementary School, is currently zoned agricultural and is surrounded by similar properties. The revised site plan includes a single entrance onto Union Hill Road and limits the development to between two and five buildings, totaling no more than 50,000 square feet.

Key stipulations proposed by the applicant include a vegetative landscape strip along street frontages, a wooden perimeter fence, and a 30-foot buffer adjacent to the elementary school. Additionally, the development would feature separate external entrances for each suite, ensuring that no interparcel access is permitted between properties.

The Board of Commissioners is expected to review these proposals further, with a vote anticipated in the coming weeks. The outcome could significantly impact the community's character and development in the area, making this a critical issue for local residents and stakeholders.